Myofascial (Dry) Cupping

History of Myofascial Cupping

Myofascial Cupping (Hijama in Arabic) is an ancient, holistic method for the treatment of a variety of conditions that dates back thousands of years. Though the exact origin of Myofascial Cupping therapy is a matter of controversy, its use has been documented in early Egyptian and Chinese medical practices throughout the centuries.

How does Myofascial Cupping work?

Myofascial Cupping works by creating suction which produces negative pressure (decompression) on the skin which can have a positive effect on tight problematic muscles, fascia (connective tissue that provides support to your muscles, tendons, ligaments, tissues, organs, nerves, joints and bones) and surrounding tissue by causing blood vessels to dilate and capillaries to rupture, flooding the area with nutrient-rich blood. When using the cups, especially static cupping techniques, it can produce reddish to purplish circles on the skin during and after the treatment (ecchymosis or bruising), which is typically seen to be therapeutically beneficial for a multitude of physical ailments.

Cupping works by stimulating inhibitory neural pathways, altering pain thresholds, promoting blood circulation, relieving swelling and increasing tissue temperature. The myofascial cupping techniques used help to reduce discomfort in the targeted tissues and have been shown in multiple scientific research studies to be very effective in relieving chronic pain and consequently improving a client's quality of life.

Aim of the Treatment

Using various massage techniques, areas of muscular restriction and tension are located and myofascial cupping techniques are then applied by moving the cups in a gliding motion over the surface of the skin or, where fascial adhesion and trigger points are found, the cups may be left on specific areas for short periods of time to reduce or eliminate those adhesions or trigger points. Cupping therapy is still very effective even if the cups are not left in place for very long.

Some of the Benefits of Myofascial Cupping Include:

• Separate layers of connective tissue, increasing blood flow and hydrates tissue whilst softening tight restricted muscles
• Introduces nutrient-rich blood into the tissues being worked on.
• Nourishes muscle fibres and skin by drawing blood from deeper layers of tissue to superficial layers of tissue.
• Increases circulation.
• Increases temperature in the tissue being worked
• Increases joint and connective tissue mobility and range of motion.
• Reduces muscle tension.
• Assists in the removal of toxins (lactic acid & metabolic waste) by increasing lymphatic drainage.
• Reduces sympathetic nerve response, while increasing the parasympathetic nerve response which has a relaxing effect throughout the body.

Some of the Conditions Helped by Myofascial Cupping Include:

• Musculoskeletal pain and discomfort
• Fibromyalgia
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Arthritis
• Bursitis / Tendonitis
• Migraines / Headaches / Sinusitis
• Pre and Post Operative Conditions
• Asthma
• Poor Circulation
• Digestive Issues
• Sciatica
• Trigger Points / Muscular Adhesions
• Athletic Stress / Tension / Injury
• Plantar Fascitis
• Postural Issues